“I may offend the ‘doggy’ version of the National Rifle Association but if these figures persist and this level of cruelty is not reduced to a fraction of what it is now, then I expect a responsible government to make enabling legislation.”

Mr Jones said new legislation should introduce “necessary measures” and “stricter controls” in order to bring down the number of dangerous dogs.

He added: “I think we all have a duty to act collectively to protect animal welfare and that starts with potential dog owners and reckless dog breeders.”

The FOI request also revealed that, across Hyndburn, the most common type of dog reported and most common breed put to sleep was Pit Bull-type dogs, many of which have been cross-bred.

Coun Paul Cox, Hyndburn council’s cabinet member for environmental health, said: “We take a proactive approach in relation to dangerous dogs in the borough and work closely with the police and kennelling services to identify and deal with them appropriately.”